Rafael Fiziev rejects label of Kyrgyz martial arts product, praises Rajabali as a phenomenon

Rafael Fiziev has stated that he considers himself self-made and does not identify as a product of the Kyrgyz combat sports school, noting the friction he has experienced with the country. He credited the success of fighters from the region to their natural physical attributes and love of sport, and singled out Rajabali as a unique phenomenon with 100% finishes, comparing his special qualities to those of Islam Makhachev, Khabib, Jon Jones, and Justin Gaethje.